ShoLyn ShoDetec-UVW Thin-Layer Chromatography Imaging System

Overview

The ShoLyn ShoDetec-UVW is a dedicated thin-layer chromatography (TLC) imaging system engineered for reliable, field-deployable fluorescence visualization and documentation of analyte migration under controlled ultraviolet illumination. It operates on the principle of UV-induced fluorescence detection—where organic compounds absorb photons at specific excitation wavelengths (254 nm and 365 nm), then emit longer-wavelength visible or near-UV light detectable by its calibrated 5-megapixel CMOS sensor. Unlike general-purpose UV transilluminators, the ShoDetec-UVW integrates optical alignment, fixed working distance (5 cm), and wavelength-specific LED sources to ensure consistent excitation geometry and minimize photobleaching during image capture. Its compact, battery-powered architecture supports benchtop use in teaching labs, QC environments, and mobile field applications where access to mains power or networked infrastructure is limited.

Key Features

• Dual-wavelength UV excitation (254 nm and 365 nm) via high-stability, low-heat LED modules—each rated at 2 W output with spectral bandwidth ≤12.2 nm and wavelength repeatability <0.2 nm.
• Fixed-focus 5 MP CMOS imaging module optimized for uniform illumination field across 50 × 70 mm TLC plates; no manual focusing required.
• Integrated 2.83″ TFT display (480 × 640 resolution) enabling real-time preview, image review, and on-device RF value estimation.
• Triple-mode data export: direct USB-C transfer, microSD card readout, and IEEE 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi upload to local network destinations or cloud-linked lab management systems.
• Portable operation supported by internal 2500 mAh Li-ion battery—providing ≥90 minutes of continuous imaging at full LED intensity.
• Robust aluminum-alloy chassis with UV-shielded viewing hood ensures operator safety and minimizes ambient light interference during acquisition.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ShoDetec-UVW accommodates standard silica gel, alumina, and cellulose-based TLC plates up to 50 × 70 mm in dimension. It is compatible with common fluorescent indicators (e.g., F254 and F365 silica), as well as derivatization reagents including anisaldehyde, sulfuric acid, and iodine vapor. While not certified to IEC 61010-1 or ISO/IEC 17025 out-of-the-box, its optical design adheres to widely accepted practices for qualitative TLC documentation referenced in USP <621>, EP 2.2.27, and JP XVII methods. The system supports GLP-compliant workflows when paired with external audit-trail-capable software—image metadata (timestamp, wavelength, exposure mode) is embedded in EXIF headers for traceability.

Software & Data Management

No proprietary desktop software is bundled; however, the device exports JPEG and PNG files with embedded EXIF tags containing acquisition parameters (wavelength, timestamp, plate dimensions). Wi-Fi connectivity enables integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or electronic lab notebooks (ELN) supporting HTTP POST or SMB file ingestion. Raw image files retain native resolution and are suitable for post-acquisition densitometric analysis using third-party tools such as ImageJ (with TLC Analyser plugin), GelAnalyzer, or commercial chromatography suites (e.g., CAMAG visionCATS, AlphaView SA). Firmware updates are delivered via microSD card.

Applications

• Routine identity verification and purity assessment of pharmaceutical intermediates and APIs in QC labs—especially for compounds exhibiting native or derivatized fluorescence (e.g., quinolones, tetracyclines, flavonoids).
• Educational demonstration of separation efficiency, R_f calculation, and solvent system optimization in undergraduate organic chemistry laboratories.
• Field-based screening of adulterants in herbal extracts, food colorants, and pesticide residues using validated TLC protocols (e.g., AOAC 992.11, EN 15662).
• Documentation of reaction progress in synthetic organic chemistry, including monitoring of coupling reactions, hydrolysis, and oxidation steps.
• Forensic document analysis involving ink differentiation and latent fingerprint development via ninhydrin or DFO reagents under 365 nm excitation.

FAQ

Is the ShoDetec-UVW compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic records?
No—the device does not provide electronic signatures, audit trails, or user access controls required for Part 11 compliance. It serves as a data acquisition endpoint only; regulatory-grade validation requires integration with compliant LIMS/ELN platforms.
Can the camera resolution be adjusted or is it fixed?
The imaging sensor operates at native 5 MP resolution with fixed focus optics—no software-based scaling or interpolation is available. This ensures pixel-level consistency critical for comparative densitometry.
What is the expected lifetime of the UV LEDs?
Rated minimum operational life is 10,000 hours at nominal drive current, based on IES LM-80 test data extrapolated per TM-21 methodology.
Does the system support time-lapse imaging or multi-exposure bracketing?
No—imaging is single-shot only. Exposure duration is auto-set per wavelength and cannot be manually overridden.
Is calibration certification provided with shipment?
A factory wavelength verification report (traceable to NIST-traceable spectroradiometer) is included. No annual recalibration service is offered; users may verify performance using certified UV reference standards (e.g., NIST SRM 2034).